IF THEY AIN’T SAINTLY – GIVE ’ EM HELL!

Goodbye Andrew – if they ain’t saintly, give ’em hell!

Thirteen of my 28 years with the Buenos Aires Herald, I worked very closely with Andrew as his night news editor, international news editor and special supplements coordinator – all at the same time. (They didn’t call the Herald the “little” great newspaper for nothing!)That usually meant work days from early afternoon until past midnight, and often several hours at least one day on the weekend. And I wasn’t the only staffer working long hours.

Andrew was as biting with his wit and words, as he was energetic with his enthusiasm and encouragement. “Have fun when you write,” he would challenge, “be creative, tell the story to your friends.” Then he would leave us to work ,but his presence was always powerful.

Sometimes he would signal approval, others urge improvement, and others make clear his disappointment.

Often after the editorial meeting blueprinting the next day’s paper, and attending to pressing board, newsroom or advertising needs, we would pop out for a cup of coffee and glass of wine. This was our chance to review previous editions and plan ahead, fine-

tuning special publications. But we would also touch on our personal projects and problems. Some came with the job, others of our own doing. It was good to talk, and listen. There were other places, lighter moments: stories and jokes, smiles and laughter – usually with a Schneider beer or two along the way.

Andrew impregnated the newsroom with the same values of yesteryear’s bastion of emblematic ethics when, along with Bob, Uki and company, he resisted the silence, darkness and despair, giving voice, light and hope to those whose relatives would fill the sadly infamous legions of the disappeared, saving more than a few with courage and commitment.

Not counting family, Andrew is among the handful of people, along with Bob, put in my path to admire and emulate, no matter how far short I fall. I am left with his teachings and friendship, meaningful messages posited with conviction and insight, constantly striving to encourage while challenging to engage, gently guiding through trying times.

P.S.:Please notify reception.

Joe Schneider Ex-Herald staffer

(1985-2013)